Breast Health

Reduced Breast Cancer Risk and Migraines Linked

For women who suffer from migraines, here's a bit of good news: New research shows that your risk for breast cancer may be reduced by as much as 26 percent.

Migraines are very painful headaches that typically cause throbbing pain in one part of the head. Women are three times as likely as men to suffer from migraines.

Triggers for migraine include:

Anxiety

Stress

Lack of food or sleep

Exposure to light

Hormonal changes (in women)

It's not clear why women who get migraines appear to have a reduced breast cancer risk, but experts suspect that hormones, particularly estrogen, are a likely reason.

Research studies have identified a drop in estrogen levels as a factor for migraine headaches. And women who have lower levels of estrogen have a lower risk for breast cancer.

What the Study Shows

Researchers first reported a possible link between migraines and breast cancer risk in a study of postmenopausal women.

That study found about a 33 percent reduced risk for breast cancer among women with migraines.

This newer study showed a lower risk for breast cancer even when other factors were considered. Such factors included a woman's menopausal status, age at migraine diagnosis, use of prescription medication, and avoidance of triggers for headache such as drinking alcohol, hormone use, or smoking.

Balancing the Information: The Bottom Line

Women with migraines should still follow the recommended guidelines for breast cancer screenings and follow-up. While the reduced risk for breast cancer in this study was noteworthy, the risk isn't completely eliminated. Women with migraines should still be proactive about getting screenings and follow-up care.

For those suffering from migraines, there are options for relief. Some treatments are used to relieve the pain, and most should be started as soon as you think you're getting a migraine. Prescription treatments used to prevent headaches before they occur are another option.

You should also try to avoid triggers that seem to cause migraines for you. These could include:

Missing meals

Changes in sleeping patterns

Certain foods, such as chocolate or nuts

Be sure to get enough sleep and stay hydrated. Another good tip? Limit stressors and take time each day to relax.

Always consult your physician for more information.

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September 2009

Breast Cancer: A Battle You Can Win

The thought of breast cancer is very scary, but you can take steps to protect yourself:

Early detection. When found early, breast cancer is easier to treat. Talk with your doctor about how to do breast self-exams and ask how often you should be screened. Beginning at age 40, most women should get a mammogram every one to two years.

Information. Find out all you can about breast cancer. Tell your doctor about your family history and ask about other risk factors that may affect you.

Prevention. There are things you can do to lower your risk. For example, regular exercise, about 3 hours a week, may reduce the risk.